What does damage refer to in negligence cases?

In negligence cases, damage specifically refers to the injury or losses suffered by the plaintiff as a result of the defendant's negligent actions. This includes both physical injuries and financial losses that may arise from an accident or harmful incident. The concept of damage is critical to establishing liability in a negligence claim, as the plaintiff must demonstrate that they experienced harm due to the defendant's failure to exercise reasonable care.

The focus on the plaintiff's injury or losses underscores the legal principle that a person may be held responsible not only for their actions but also for the consequences those actions have on others. In this context, damages can encompass a range of impacts, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other forms of economic or non-economic loss.

Understanding this concept helps clarify how legal systems approach accountability and compensation in cases where an individual or entity's lack of reasonable care leads to harmful outcomes for others.